The Magic Merchant in Fairy Tail

"We're here." The Toad Messenger stopped abruptly outside the grand doors of the Council chamber. "The Council members are inside. Show some respect!"

Kira looked up at the imposing entrance. The sheer size of the place was overwhelming, with towering doors carved from ancient oak, intricately decorated with magical runes that pulsed faintly. He could feel the weight of authority emanating from the chamber.

Still, Kira was Kira. His lips curled into a faint smirk as he reached for the massive door. Let's see what the almighty Council has in store for me.

Knocking politely—a habit that amused even him in this situation—he then stepped inside.

The courtroom was vast, designed to impress and intimidate. High above the floor, the Council members sat in elevated seats that looked almost like thrones. Their placement made it clear who wielded power here.

Kira's eyes flicked upward, surveying the faces that loomed over him. He immediately realized these weren't the real members but thought-projected forms, a common practice in the magical world for high-profile individuals.

Well, of course they wouldn't all gather here for a "small case" like mine, Kira mused.

At the top sat Speaker Crawford, a round, balding man with a long, flowing beard and a wizard's hat that seemed oversized for his head. His expression was stern but carried an undercurrent of smugness that Kira found mildly irritating.

Kira quickly scanned the rest of the Council:

Yajima, the diminutive, kindly man who had long been a friend of Markov's.

Augur, renowned for his vast knowledge and his private collection of lost magic.

Michele, a cat-like humanoid whose gaze was inscrutable.

And others, including the all-too-familiar Zikrein and Urrutia.

The sight of Urrutia almost made Kira laugh aloud. She glared at him with unmistakable malice, and he could practically hear her grinding her teeth.

Still upset about that punch on Karna Island? What a grudge-holder.

Clearing his throat, the Toad Messenger raised his voice. "The Council is now in session! Defendant Kira Hopelet, please take your place at the hearing table!"

Kira sauntered over, his expression casual. The tension in the air was palpable, but he didn't let it affect him. Keep them guessing. That's rule number one in situations like this.

"The charges against you are as follows," began the Toad Messenger, his voice echoing in the chamber. "Destruction of public property at Kunuki Station, unauthorized possession of dark magic artifacts, and reckless behavior endangering civilians. Do you plead guilty?"

Kira tilted his head slightly, a lazy grin forming. "Of course, I plead guilty."

His confident response caused a stir among the Council members. Even Crawford raised an eyebrow. Most expected Fairy Tail wizards to argue, defy, or shout accusations. But here was Kira, calmly admitting guilt.

The murmurs subsided as Crawford leaned forward. "Very well. We'll begin with the artifact in question—Lalabai. Our records indicate that you seized it during the Iron Forest incident. Where is it now?"

Kira reached into his coat and pulled out the demonic flute, holding it up with both hands like a prized trophy. "Right here, Speaker. I was keeping it safe until I could personally hand it over to the Council."

Several councilors exchanged surprised glances. A Fairy Tail wizard voluntarily handing over a dangerous artifact?

"I must commend your sense of responsibility, young man," Crawford said, though his voice carried skepticism. "But why didn't you surrender it immediately to the restraining team on site?"

"Allow me to explain," Kira began, his tone smooth and confident. "At the time, I had reason to believe that Lalabai was even more dangerous than the legends suggested. I couldn't risk it falling into the wrong hands during transport. Instead, I chose to analyze and secure it myself, ensuring its safe delivery here."

"Analyze?" Zikrein's voice cut through. "Do you fancy yourself an expert on dark magic, Kira Hopelet?"

Kira met Zikrein's gaze evenly. "I wouldn't call myself an expert, but I do have a keen interest in magical artifacts. It's a hobby of mine."

His casual tone drew quiet laughter from some councilors, including Yajima. Urrutia, however, looked like she wanted to incinerate him on the spot.

"In any case," Kira continued, "I've confirmed that Lalabai, while formidable, is not quite as invincible as the legends suggest. The curse is limited in range, and the artifact's power can be nullified with the right precautions."

Over the next hour, Kira spun an intricate tale of how he'd tracked Iron Forest, uncovered their plans, and single-handedly ensured Lalabai wouldn't pose a threat. He portrayed himself as a humble hero, acting only in the interest of public safety and the greater good.

His story was embellished, of course—he conveniently omitted the part where he'd studied Lalabai for his own curiosity—but it was convincing enough to leave the Council impressed.

By the time he finished, Crawford nodded in approval. "A compelling account. And the artifact has been secured. In light of your cooperation and the fact that no lives were lost during the incident, the Council will issue no formal punishment."

"Thank you, Speaker," Kira said with a respectful bow.

"However," Crawford added, his tone sharp, "you will be required to reflect on your actions and submit a written self-critique to your guild master."

Kira barely suppressed a grin. A written critique? That's the worst they've got? I'll have it done before dinner.

By the time Kira returned to Fairy Tail, the guild was alive with its usual chaos.

"You don't know what you missed!" Kira declared, his voice carrying over the din. "The Council was so impressed with my story, they practically begged me to stay and join them. If I hadn't refused, they'd be throwing me a banquet right now!"

"Sure, Kira," Gray said dryly, rolling his eyes.

Happy flew over, munching on a fish. "Did they arrest you for bragging?"

"Very funny, cat."

Markov, perched at the bar, waved Kira over. "Tell me what really happened."

Kira leaned closer, his voice dropping. "I handed over Lalabai, but I learned something else. I ran into Gajeel at the Council. He mentioned Phantom Lord is planning something against Fairy Tail."

Markov's expression darkened. "A war?"

"It's likely. I'd suggest we start preparing."

The old master sighed, his jovial demeanor replaced with somber resolve. "Then we'll be ready."

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